PomegranatePunica granatum

Best known for the antioxidant-rich fruit it produces, the pomegranate shrub is widely grown throughout the Mediterranean region. Its tubular blooms begin to appear in late May and early June, providing nice spring color, while the fruit ripens from September to October. The fruit is a bit unusual, as the only edible parts are the jewel-like arils and seeds found inside.

This specimen loves warmer climates, growing best in hardiness zones 7–10. It can either be left to grown naturally as a shrub or pruned and grown as a small tree.

Hardiness Zones

The potted pomegranate can be expected to grow in Hardiness Zones 7–10. View Map

Tree Type

This is a fruit shrub, grown primarily for the edible fruit it produces.

Mature Size

The pomegranate grows to a height of 12–20' and a spread of 12–20' at maturity.

Growth Rate

This shrub grows at a medium rate, with height increases of 13–24" per year.

Sun Preference

Full sun is the ideal condition for this shrub, meaning it should get at least 6 hours of direct, unfiltered sunlight each day.

Soil Preference

The pomegranate grows in loamy, moist, sandy, well-drained, and clay soils. It has moderate drought tolerance.

Attributes

This shrub:

Produces red funnel-shaped blooms (measuring 1" or more across) from May to June or July.

Features lustrous dark green leaves in an oblong shape that are 1" to 3" long, turning yellow-green to yellow in the fall.

Yields large fruit with edible arils -- the jewel-like "berries" found inside the fruit that contain the seeds -- that ripen September to October and can be stored for long periods of time (best if at 32–41° F).

Grows in an oval shape.

Can be maintained as a smaller tree or larger shrub and is often multi-trunked or low-branching.

Begins to bear fruit in 2–3 years.

Offers a low chill requirement of only 150–200 hours.

Tolerates drought.

Wildlife Value

The flowers attract hummingbirds, and the arils of the fruit are enjoyed by a wide variety of wildlife.

History/Lore

The pomegranate has been cultivated since ancient times. The fruit is considered a symbol of Christmas in Greece.

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